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Censo Biotech has offered the use of their team and laboratory based in Roslin, Edinburgh, which is equipped with seven specialist machines for amplifying DNA.

The firm's chief executive, Mike Hawthorne, said: “As soon as mass testing was recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), we knew we could offer significant support to deliver this.

“While we are continuing our existing research with a skeletal staff every available resource is being directed to the Covid-19 effort.”

The companies 25 strong workforce of scientists will support NHS Scotland labs where possible.

The firm says it is ready to test as soon as possible, with NHS Scotland currently handling data handling logistics.

The firm is also carrying out work which could prove essential to defeating a similar virus in the future.

Clinical support technician Douglas Condie extracts viruses from swab samples so that the genetic structure of a virus can be analysed and identified in the coronavirus testing laboratory at Glasgow Royal Infirmary (Image: Getty Images 2020)

The company claimed its technology could cure a similar infection in around 12 hours.

Hawthorne added: “We are also working on developing a potent anti-viral cell therapy that would work for any similar virus emerging in the future, something the WHO has warned will likely happen again.

“This therapy could potentially cure the infection in around 12 hours and while it won’t be available in time for Covid-19 with enough funding and government input it is something that could be developed and stockpiled in readiness.”

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